INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a spectrum of conditions affecting the large and small intestine including Crohns disease and ulcerative colitis. The cause of these disorders is unknown but they result in inflammation of the GI tract leading to a variety of symptoms including pain, cramping, diarrhea, bleeding, weight loss and infection. These disorders are best managed medically initially but when surgical treatment is indicated, referral to a colon and rectal surgeon is best.